Source takes a look back at the big stories you were reading in 2019.
It’s the end of another busy year in the licensing industry and – while there’s no denying there have been spells of turbulence – there have also been times of celebration.
LicensingSource.net takes a look at some of the most read stories on the site throughout the year.
January
Disney sets new record at UK and Ireland box office – 2018 was the company’s biggest year ever, reaching £313m and setting new industry benchmark.
Richard Hollis takes on new role at Rocket Licensing – well respected exec took on the newly created role of head of retail at the agency.
Games now bigger than music and video, says ERA – games market worth £3.864bn, more than doubling in value since 2007; FIFA 19 is 2018 top seller.
February
Disney reveals Star Wars and Frozen 2 global launch plans – company reveals plans for first ever simultaneous roll out for two blockbuster franchises.
Primark springs in with new Disney homewares – Bambi and Mickey Mouse lines took inspiration from mainline homeware trends such as botanicals.
Argos to celebrate Barbie with special exhibition – dedicated pop-up celebrated brand’s diverse history in honour of milestone 60th anniversary.
March
Northern Light Fund Quiz Night is big success – £12,000 raised for industry charity at popular annual event in Manchester.
Brands highlighted in retail Mother’s Day promos – Tesco F&F, Tu Clothing, Primark, TruffleShuffle were among those showcasing key characters.
Rainbow Productions eyes Middle East growth – costume character and mascot specialist headed to DEAL in Dubai to increase market presence.
April
BLE 2019 reveals ‘Beyond the Book’ publishing activation – initiative celebrated publishing’s role within the licensing industry, showcasing success stories.
Brand & Lifestyle Licensing Awards 2019: The winners – over 400 licensors, licensees, agents & retailers gather at London’s Hilton Park Lane to see winners crowned.
Primark’s Birmingham megastore opens its doors – five-floor building includes Disney café, plus Disney and Harry Potter themed areas.
May
Laura Ashley reveals Urban Outfitters collab – British lifestyle brand teamed with retailer for line which revives some of its vintage prints.
LIMA relaunches as Licensing International – trade body unveiled brand refresh to reflect new era in the industry and renewed commitment to the future.
Aldi launches first ever Harry Potter line – retailer revealed ‘spellbinding’ deals on collectables, plush, apparel and homewares.
June
“The fan experience is at the centre of everything” – Activision Blizzard added new licensees as focus on esports and brand collaborations continues.
What happens in Vegas… goes to market – Licensing International’s Sharon Weisman gave her top ten run down of trends from the show floor.
Gemma International to cease trading – directors resolved to put the company into a Creditors Voluntary Liquidation.
July
The Licensing Awards 2019 finalists revealed – shortlists confirmed for the Product, Property, Retail and Promotions categories.
The Light Fund Summer Treasure Hunt raises £8,000 – some 245 industry execs back popular event; Rainbow Productions team are victorious.
Primark takes off with NASA collection – fast fashion retailer revealed exclusive themed collection of apparel and accessories.
August
Hasbro swoops in to acquire eOne – Deal to add preschool powerhouse Peppa Pig to portfolio, plus PJ Masks, Ricky Zoom and additional brands in development.
Licensing International UK names Rising Star nominees – six young professionals make shortlist for 2019 accolade.
The Arcade comes to Brand Licensing Europe – Official partner PowerStation Studios revealed the first collaborations for activation.
September
The Licensing Awards 2019: The winners – Retail, Product, Property, Marketing and Honorary Achievement winners crowned in glittering ceremony.
Roald Dahl Day initiatives abound at retail – Paperchase and Monsoon, plus partners such as Mr Kipling and Pritt Stick all ran bespoke activity.
Alpha Group’s Mark Slater-Hyndman passes away – company’s UK general manager sadly passed away.
October
“We do not have a commercial partnership with Amazon” – Primark urged shoppers not to buy its products from Amazon after prices of many are inflated on site.
“You cannot deny the effect of influencers” – Asda’s Ruth Golightly talked key trends within the licensed apparel category.
“This week has been incredible for many reasons” – Visitor numbers up as vp of Global Licensing Group Anna Knight hailed this year’s BLE as a success.
November
Aldi takes wraps off new Friends gifting line – apparel and homeware inspired by hit brand arrived in retailer for the first time.
The Light Fund Southern Quiz raises over £13k – the team from Beano walked away victorious as industry gathered at Lord’s for annual event.
Pam Kaufman set for key role at ViacomCBS – popular exec will be president, global consumer products for merged company.
December
The Light Fund’s £160k greenlights 32 charity projects – industry charity allocated funds raised throughout 2019 to 32 different charity projects.
Industry turns out for Patrick Bailey’s farewell send-off – popular licensing executive bid farewell after 30 years in the trade.
Amazon.co.uk names its bestsellers of 2019 – retailer also revealed nation’s favourite Christmas presents including L.O.L. Surprise, FIFA 20 and Harry Potter Dobble.
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